What Apple’s New Trade-In Increases Mean for You
Apple trade-in values are the estimated amounts Apple offers when you hand in an eligible device toward a new purchase, and understanding how these values change over time helps you decide when and how to upgrade for the best return. Apple has recently raised trade-in values for all iPhone 16 models, all current iPad models, and select Apple Watch and Mac devices, making upgrades more attractive than before. For iPhones, the base iPhone 16 saw the biggest increase in value, while other iPhone 16 models also gained. iPad trade-in value increases are spread across the lineup, with the iPad Pro seeing the highest bump. On the Mac side, there are mixed changes, so knowing which models gained the most can help you plan your trade-in strategy more carefully.
Biggest Winners: iPhone 16, iPad, and Mac Trade-In Increases
Apple’s latest update is especially good news if you own a recent iPhone, iPad, or Mac. For the iPhone 16 family, the base model now has a maximum trade-in value of USD 460 (approx. RM2,140), a USD 25 (approx. RM115) increase, while the iPhone 16 Plus, Pro, and Pro Max each gained USD 10 (approx. RM46) and now top out at USD 465 (approx. RM2,160), USD 560 (approx. RM2,600), and USD 695 (approx. RM3,230), respectively. iPad trade-in values rose across all models, with the iPad Pro jumping from USD 670 (approx. RM3,120) to USD 690 (approx. RM3,210). Mac users see mixed changes: the MacBook Air climbs from USD 485 (approx. RM2,260) to USD 520 (approx. RM2,420), and the Mac mini increases from USD 340 (approx. RM1,590) to USD 375 (approx. RM1,750). According to PCMag, “the Mac mini…gets the biggest value bump among Apple computers.”
How to Prepare Your iPhone for Trade-In and Protect Your Data
Knowing how to prepare phone for trade-in is essential if you want maximum value and secure data. Start by backing up everything. Use iCloud (Settings > your name > iCloud > iCloud Backup > Back Up Now) or a computer backup via Finder or iTunes to save your data. Next, disable Find My in Settings > your name > Find My to avoid activation issues. Sign out of Messages by turning off iMessage, unpair any AirPods via Bluetooth, and unpair your Apple Watch using the Watch app so accessories are ready for your next device. Then sign out of iCloud, iTunes, and the App Store from Settings > your name > Sign Out. Finally, erase the phone via Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Erase All Content and Settings, and remove any physical SIM card from older models before handing it over.
Beyond Apple: Comparing Trade-In Options and Timing Your Upgrade
Apple’s trade-in program is convenient, but it is only one option in a broader device trade-in guide. Other retailers, carriers, and dedicated resellers often offer competitive—or sometimes higher—payouts, especially for popular models with high demand in the used market. However, Apple’s recent Mac trade-in increase for devices like the MacBook Air and Mac mini narrows that gap and can make an Apple Store trade-in attractive if you plan to buy new Apple hardware. Trade-in values vary by device model and condition, and they typically decline as new generations arrive. That makes timing important: trading in an iPhone 16, recent iPad, or upgraded Mac sooner rather than later can lock in today’s higher values. Whatever route you choose, remember that a well-prepared, clean, and fully functional device is more likely to reach the higher end of any quoted range.